What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a change in perception, a shift in mindset that changes our relationship with the world around us. Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment through a gentle, nurturing lens. It is noticing your thoughts and feelings without applying judgment, ruminating about the past, or being anxious about the moment. Mindfulness is being aware of where you are in this moment.
Mindfulness and nature connectedness are two strategies that cohesively intertwine, allowing individuals to benefit from each. Nature connectedness and mindfulness were explored by Schutte and Malouff (2018). The researchers analyzed data from 2,345 participants and noted that there was a significant association between greater mindfulness and more connectedness to nature. The study identified that mindfulness's non-judgmental perspective encourages individuals to fully engage in the nature experience. This deeper level of experience develops a sense of connectedness to nature. The study also concludes that those participants who spent 30 minutes a day in nature for 30 days showed significant increases in mindfulness. Furthermore, those who engaged in mindful meditation reported a greater connection to nature compared to those in the control group.
Mindfulness Techniques
The following are some mindfulness techniques you can use to stay present and experience your environment more meaningfully.